They are quite beautiful snakes and come in five different subspecies. The Northern red-bellied snake is a close relative of the Dekays brown snake. It might seem like there are a lot of different kinds of snakes in Ohio but some of them are just different subspecies of the same species of snake. According to iNaturalist, the following ten species are the most common snakes in Ohio: In the following sections, well take a closer look at each of them, share some basic information, and tell you which characteristics are unique to each species. These snakes can be found near almost every body of water in the state. All these snakes share most of the following characteristics: Fun Fact: There are no poisonous snakes in Ohio. Remember the following: Copyright 2004 - 2021 - columbussnakes.com. Home; About Us. It has a well-rounded head with round pupils, and it also has a well-defined tail. Imagine Seeing This 30-Foot Sea Snake in the Open Ocean Gulp! When in a park, forest, or other wild area keep your pets on leashes and your children near you at all times. The averageTimber Rattlesnakegrows between 36 to 60 inches long. CLEVELAND, OH (WOIO) - There are three snake speciesidentified in Ohio that are capable of producing a venomous bite; a fact that few Ohioans may not have known. Many people don't know that Cleveland is in fact full of snakes! However, cottonmouths (water moccasins) dont occur in Ohio. The copperhead, which is usually up to 3 feet long,gained the name from its copper-colored head. The Eastern massasauga rattlesnake is an endangered species in Ohio and protected by law. Colby is a freelance writer from Charlotte, North Carolina. Most snakes are beneficial in helping to control destructive insects and rodents. It has been estimated that 7,000-8,000 people per year receive venomous snake . When they are threatened and bound to strike, they shake their tails and make the rattling sound. Please treat the snakes of Cleveland with respect! It has a severely flattened head and neck which become exaggerated even further when the snake is angry. Snakes of Ohio: Identifying all 25 species (slideshow) Copperheads are one of the most famous snakes found across the eastern United States. They are described as one of the most dangerous snakes in Ohio. There are 25 different snakes in Ohio, of these, there are 3 venomous snakes. You just need to know where to find them - they can often be These snakes can grow up to 18-30 inches. shy and elusive. Primarily the Hognose snake is found in northwest Ohio and the hills of southern Ohio. click here for my complete list of ALL snake species in Columbus. Color should only be a guiding characteristic, and never a conclusive one. It might sound crazy, but did you know that there isnt a single snake in the world that is poisonous? The Eastern hog-nosed snake has a broad, flattened head thats absolutely distinctive. If this happens, you should lay them flat and cover them with a blanket. 9 Most Dangerous Animals In Ohio: Watch Out For The Deer! The eastern massasauga (endangered in Ohio) and the northern copperhead have been identified nearby. shy and elusive. Welcome to akronsnakes.com! Among snakes in general, you may notice the following pupil shapes: In Ohio, youll only encounter round and slit-shaped pupils. The massasauga is one of two rattlesnakes that are native to Ohio. Nonvenomous gray rat snakes can reach significant lengths, sometimes up to six feet in length, with some reports of individuals that even reach 8 feet in length! Poisonous Snakes in Ohio - AZ Animals Their heads are short and usually somewhat glossy and they have round pupils. Smooth earth snakes have a gray or dark brown base color that helps them hide in the soil and at the base of trees in the forest. 28 Snakes In Ohio (3 Are Venomous!) - AZ Animals The marking are not uniform. As its name suggests, the gray rat snake feeds primarily on rodents. They are actually encountering the harmless Northern water snake. Its a very small snake that averages about three feet long. shy and elusive. Many of them can be divided into one of a few main groups: Most of the other snakes in the region are individual representatives of their genera: All of these species fit into two main families, specifically the families Colubridae and Viperidae. The first is the common water snake, a citizen of large parts of the United States. Most snakes of a species never outgrow the average size. Reptile.Guide 2023 - All Rights Reserved, Join the discussion! The fact is, many snakes can be strong swimmers, but some snakes do specialize in hunting in the water. shy and elusive. Their bodies are tan with dark brown, hourglass-shaped crossbands that fade to a lighter brown in the center of the bands. They have a stripe down their back that ranges from pinkish, orange, brown, or black, with dark brown to black chevron, patterned bands on their back and sides. The scales are keeled which gives the snake a rough appearance. In the rough green snake, the scales are keeled giving it an almost rasp-like appearance. Watch an Indigo Snake Consume a Python Whole, Discover the Snake-Infested Volcanic Island Known as The Biggest Rattlesnake Nest in the World. Its also the smallest venomous species in the area. They are also, at times, located in wooded suburbs. These are the Eastern timber rattlesnake, northern copperhead, and the massasauga rattlesnake. So, if youve been worried about the snake in your garden trying to eat you, rest assured. This species has a tail that has adapted to form a rattle. Before we get into our list, its important to clear up a common misconception regarding snakes and their danger. Distribution: Eastern massasaugas can be found across northern Ohio and are present in 28 counties. They are found in river bottoms where the leaf and plant debris provide cover for them to hide. It is one of only two rattlesnake species native to Ohio. Every day A-Z Animals sends out some of the most incredible facts in the world from our free newsletter. There is a potentially small population that resides among some of the small islands of western Lake Erie. Once your account is created, you'll be logged-in to this account. Among other things, this identification guide will share: Ill also share Ohio snakes in pictures, and some of my favorite resources for dealing with snakes in this state. There are two well-known poisonous ones in our woods where caution is advised, though. You should never try to catch, kill, or otherwise molest a snake that you find. In Ohio, most timber rattlesnakes have black bands that resemble chevrons down the length of their bodies. It happily dwells anywhere with lots of vegetation and moist soils. Live happily in meadows and prairies but also wherever else food is readily available. You may also sometimes hear this one called a "swamp rattler" in some areas. The larvae of these insects are firm favorites among worm snakes. When something can kill you when it bites you, its venomous. I am David, a snake enthusiast living in Cleveland, OH. In the United States, there are four species of hognose snake: If you see a snake with an upturned nose that kind of falls off to one side like a tent flap thats a hognose snake. Northern red-bellied snake populations and garter snake populations both sometimes produce melanistic snakes. These snakes average between 3-4 feet long. Most snakes have a well-defined distribution range, which they wont leave. Distribution: The timber rattlesnake is only found in the southern regions of the state (usually south of Ross County). Welcome to clevelandsnakes.com! There are two types of water snakes in Ohio. Ohio Snake Identification - Venomous or Not? - Blogger It is identified as a medium-sized rattlesnake with a gray or brown body. The snakes have a pattern thats most often confused with water mocassins (cottonmouths), yet theyre not poisonous. The eastern milk snake is also sometimes called the farmers friend. Contact the AZ Animals editorial team. The head is long and slightly glossy, with round pupils. If you want more detail, As long as the prey is plentiful, and conditions are easy, this snake is happy to live there. There's a whole world to learn about and Colby is content to spend his life learning as much as he can about it! The Queen snake is a relatively unremarkable species that travels freely wherever food is abundant. Timber rattlers, for. You can also connect with other people who have an interest in snakes. However, they prefer dry soils, so they likely feed mainly on the toads that bury themselves in these soils. The spotted turtle, a state threatened species, was observed here in 2008. Snakes that are dangerous to humans can inject their toxins into our bodies through their fangs, making them venomous. The snake has a large head and large eyes with slit-shaped pupils. We also get your email address to automatically create an account for you in our website. From proper husbandry and habitat guidance, to articles on health concerns, diet, and extensive care guides, Reptile Guide is here to educate everyone on all things reptiles. Massasauga rattlesnakes are heavy-bodied rattlesnakes that live in Ohio. Nuisance Species: Snakes - Ohio Department of Natural Resources They can come in various shades of brown or tan, and they often have a stripe with dots alongside their spine. Its a bit of a scam, since these snakes are harmless. Some Ohio snake species are more common outside of the city limits, in different parts of Lucas County OH, but many types of snakes are indeed common in the more urban parts of Toledo. However, most other snakes prefer a specific habitat type. The background color for the species is dark gray or brown with black or dark brown bands throughout the body. Distribution: The northern copperhead can be found in the southern and eastern counties of Ohio. Northern Copperhead photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons This four minute video features naturalist Jenny Richards of Shawnee State Park describing Ohio's three species of venomous snakes. Akron Snakes - Common and Venomous Snakes of Akron, Ohio Summit County Why? There are only three venomous, or poisonous, snakes in Ohio. Only three species of snakes in Ohio (the copperhead and the massasauga and timber rattlesnakes) are venomous. Some snakes, like the garter snakes, are called garden snakes because theyll make themselves at home anywhere, including gardens. Producing venom isnt easy for snakes and they dont waste it. Additionally, the copper-bellied watersnake, plains gartersnake and smooth greensnake. TheEastern Massasaugais generally thought to be docile and sluggish animals unless they are provoked. Snake bites are rarely fatal only around five of the 7,000 snake bites in the US every year are fatal. There are three species of garter snake in Ohio: the Eastern garter, Easter plains garter, and the Butlers garter snake. If something kills you when you bite it, it's poisonous. Springtime Snake ID: Part II - Ohio History Connection Have some feedback for us? Whether youre in Idaho or India, several essential characteristics can help you identify snakes. These snakes are marvelous climbers and have been found in trees at heights of more than 80 feet. Like other rattlesnakes, massasaugas have a rattle on their tail, although theirs is usually pretty small. Adults can grow to around 39 to 45 inches in length, with the largest specimen found in Alabama measuring 62.5 inches. The rough and smooth green snakes are very similar, except for their scales. The head is well-rounded and the tiny eyes have round pupils. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has identified the three as the Northern Copperhead, the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake, and the Eastern Timber Rattlesnake. Some of the complications from a Timber Rattlesnake bite may include severe shock, seizures, coma, severe internal bleeding, and deep tissue damage, leading to gangrene. You cant miss an eastern hognose snake. The eastern garter snake is a common snake often referred to as the garden snake. You will find theEastern Copperheadin southern and eastern Ohio. Vipers rely on camouflage to protect them from your attention. It also has heat-sensing pits between the eyes and the nostrils. These snakes are quick to defend themselves and can leave painful bites that while not deadly, can be quite painful. With hundreds of articles on everything pertaining to lizards, turtles, and snakes, our experienced team provides reliable and accurate content you can trust. An average of six people die of snakebites annually in the United States. They release toxic venoms and their bite can have serious negative effects. The list of things you shouldnt do is considerably longer. The northern water snake is dark brown with bands in various shades of brown. Most of the fear people have towards snakes is rooted in misconception. Its almost impossible to mistake the hognose snake for any other species. Their snout slopes down and back, making the top of the head extends further forward than the mouth. Neutral colors that blend well with leaf litter or stony backgrounds, A tail thats adapted to form a rattle (only in timber rattlesnakes and the Massasauga), Wide heads with heat-sensitive pits between the eyes and nostrils (they look triangular when seen from above), Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta Copper-bellied Water snake, Agkistrodon contortrix Eastern Copperhead, Lampropeltis triangulum Eastern Milk snake, Pantherophis vulpinus Eastern Fox Snake, Storeria occipitomaculata Northern Red-bellied Snake, Diadophis punctatus Northern Ring-necked Snake, Heterodon platirhinos Eastern Hog-nosed Snake, Long hollow fangs that operate on a hinge, Most have large eyes with slit-shaped pupils. Again, outside of Ohio, there are snakes that do not follow these rules. You just need to know where to find them - they can often be Common Snake Species in Akron Eastern water snake: This is a harmless snake that can grow to a maximum length of 53 inches. click here for my complete list of ALL snake species in Cleveland. By knowing both the average and maximum length of the species, you can quickly tell whether any snake you find is possibly that type. A long, stout-bodied snake with the musculature which is characteristic of constrictors. The Buckeye State boasts five different species. They eat lots of rodents and insects. Venomous Snakes of Ohio - Krebs Creek From venomous snakes like the Copperhead to harmless species like the worm snakes, the diversity is amazing. At one point, it was considered the longest snake in North America. There are many watersnake species in Ohio, but the most commonly mistaken one is the common watersnake. The color of its neck and belly serves as a warning for potential predators. Usually, snake bites are the result of someone harassing a snake, or accidentally stepping on one. It looks much like a corn snake except that the colors are muted. Panic theres no reason to, and it wont help you, Call for help, if the snake poses a danger to anyone or is in danger, Leave the snake alone, unless you want to take photos or observe from a safe distance, If the snake has bitten you, someone else, or someones pet, If the snake is in danger or poses a threat to others (i.e. Viperidae contains around 36 Genera, and four subfamilies. Marshals searching for Ohio man wanted in multiple crimes, Closed Captioning/Audio Description Problems. If you want more detail, Despite what you may have heard or believed you have seen, to date no cottonmouths/ water moccasins have been found in Ohio (although as the climate warms, that is almost certain to change). The two snakes are similar, both in appearance and habits. Venomous snakes exist but are uncommon in Akron, Ohio Snakes eat rats and mice and are a valuable part of the Ohio ecosystem Never kill a snake - if you leave a snake alone, it will leave you alone. click here for my complete list of ALL snake species in Cincinnati. Some Ohio snake species are more common outside of the city limits, in different parts of Summit County OH, but many types of snakes are indeed common in the more urban parts of Akron. Today, venomous snakes are rare in the state, decimated by loss of habitat and human predation, but there are still some around and outdoor folk should be aware of them. Enter your email in the box below to get the most mind-blowing animal stories and videos delivered directly to your inbox every day. If you see black snakes in Ohio, you wont go looking at the garter snakes or green snakes, but the black rat snakes are likely candidates. The body tapers to form a well-defined tail. The snakes base color is almost always black but it can be dark gray also. The snakes have an average length of three to four feet. We will go into each venomous snake and where to find them in Ohio Eastern Copperhead ( Agkistrodon contortrix) Eastern Massasauga ( Sistrurus catenatus) Timber Rattlesnake ( Crotalus horridus) Shop Amazon for snake safety gear. Poison is defined as a toxin that gets into your body through breathing, swallowing, or absorption through the skin. Remember the following: Please treat the snakes of Dayton with respect! If you are near Lake Erie or some of the states bigger rivers youll probably see aquatic snakes. It makes dinner out of frogs, minnows, mice, slugs, earthworms, toads, and frogs. You can also try the Free Snake Relocation Directory on Facebook if youd like to get someone whos passionate about snakes. Identification: Massasauagas are heavy-bodied rattlesnakes that generally grow to a maximum of two feet, making them smaller than timber rattlesnakes. In Ontario, Canada, there are two cases of people dying from a poorly treated bite because the specific antivenom is not easily acquired. Many people don't know that Toledo is in fact full of snakes! It has unkeeled scales, which gives it a smooth appearance. Their bodies are copper-colored, often with reddish or brownish undertones. Reptile Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. It also has grasslands that run along the central region to sandy beaches and marshes along the shores of Lake Erie. So if you see one of these snakes in an outbuilding, or a garage, or when youre walking in the woods dont be alarmed. Removing a Snake. Like mostpit vipers, theEastern copperheadsvenom is hemotoxic. In captivity, breeders have produced multiple milk snake morphs with significantly different patterns. I am David, a snake enthusiast living in Akron, OH. If you want more detail, Ohio's 3 venomous snakes are important | WKBN.com These animals often visit well-watered gardens where they feed on small rodents and birds. Jan. 12, 2013. The eastern fox snake might give you a scare if you just look quickly. Lets begin! The smooth earth snake gets its name from its color, and its terrestrial habits. Timber Rattlesnake. For example, timber rattlesnakes can reach lengths of up to 74.5 inches. Eastern timber rattlesnakes are easily the most dangerous snakes in Ohio. 5 Effective Ways to Get Rid of the Snakes Under the Shed or Porch. complete list of ALL snake species in Columbus. Common watersnakes are brown or black and have brown banding that runs down their bodies. They can also grow as long as six feet. educate you about the beautiful snakes of Columbus, and to help you identify the most common snakes of Columbus, as well as the venomous snakes of Columbus that you should learn to recognize and avoid. The last known fatality from a snake bite in Ohio was in 1947. This guide is meant to help Every year people claim to see the dangerous water moccasin, also known as cottonmouth, in Ohio's waters. Far from it! shy and elusive. Worm snakes are highly adapted predators that burrow in moist soils to feed on the larvae and adults of termites and ants. Each of these snakes is harmless to humans and can be found across much of the state. If something kills you when you bite it, its poisonous. The snakes neck and chin are also white. These types of snakes can be found in Ohio, southern Michigan, and northern Indiana, and are possibly found in the areas around those locations. A Guide To Ohio's Venomous Snakes - The Odyssey Online Hognose snakes have a lot of variety in their coloring depending on what their habitat is like. They release toxic venoms and their bite can have serious negative effects. This is why its essential to stick to well-worn paths, wear sturdy shoes, and pay careful attention to where youre walking. It prefers to live near water sources and is semi-aquatic by nature. Several of the turtles here have a special conservation status in Ohio. Northern copperheads have the greatest range of all the subspecies, and they are also one of the most misidentified snakes. Timber rattlesnake: The timber rattlesnake is one of the venomous snakes of Canton Ohio. Much of the fear related to snakes are the result of misunderstandings. Its body is short and stocky, and its pupils are round. Finding a rat snake in Ohio is simple enough. Timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) also known as the American viper, are a formidable predator. Its not common and is classed as a threatened or endangered species in parts of its range. Keep your eyes open and pay attention to where youre stepping when you enter a potential snake habitat. Its head is no wider than its body and its pupils are circular. North American racers, or blue racers, are one of the longest snakes on the continent. Its scales are slightly keeled so it has a relatively smooth look but with well-defined scales. They are found in Cleveland, Ohio, as well as many other locations in the country. Thamnophis butleri Butlers Garter Snake, Thamnophis sirtalis Common Garter Snake, Thamnophis brachystoma Short-headed Garter snake. Venomous snakes could be found in Trumbull County - WFMJ.com However, in some cases, an individual will reach much longer lengths.